How Do Dentists Clean Teeth? What To Expect At Your Dental Cleaning

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for a healthy and confident smile. Regular dental visits, including professional teeth cleanings, play a crucial role in achieving optimal oral health. 

If you’re wondering how dentists clean teeth, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to know. From the initial examination to the final polishing, we’ll take you step by step through the process.

The Importance of Professional Teeth Cleanings

Regular professional teeth cleanings are vital for maintaining oral health. While daily brushing and flossing are essential, they can’t remove all the plaque and tartar that accumulate on your teeth over time. 

Professional cleanings help remove these deposits, preventing the development of gum disease, cavities, and other dental issues. Additionally, regular check-ups allow your dentist to detect any potential problems early on, ensuring prompt treatment and preventing further complications.

The Initial Examination

A typical teeth cleaning appointment at LifestyleSmiles starts with a thorough examination of your teeth and gums. Your dentist or dental hygienist will use a small mirror to check for any signs of gum disease, tooth decay, or other oral health concerns. This initial assessment helps determine the level of cleaning required and whether any additional treatments are necessary.

Removing Plaque and Tartar

Once the examination is complete, your dental hygienist will get to work on removing any plaque and tartar from your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth, while tartar is hardened plaque that cannot be removed through regular brushing and flossing. 

Our dental professionals use specialised instruments, such as a scaler, to gently scrape away these deposits from the surfaces of your teeth and along the gum line. This process is generally painless.

At Lifestylesmiles we use the state of the Airflow machine, which sprays out warm water and fine powders which is great for removal of tea, coffee and smoking stains without causing sensitivity to your teeth. This has been a huge success for those who have sensitive teeth or those who cannot stand the high pitched sound using traditional dental instruments.

Polishing the Teeth

After the plaque and tartar have been removed, your dental hygienist will use a high-powered electric brush and gritty toothpaste to polish your teeth. This polish helps remove any remaining stains and leaves your teeth feeling smooth and clean. 

It’s important to note that professional tooth polishing should only be done twice a year to avoid excessive enamel wear. Therefore, it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene practices at home, including regular brushing and flossing.

Expert Flossing

Professional flossing is a crucial step in the teeth cleaning process. Even if you floss regularly at home, a dental hygienist’s expertise allows them to reach areas that may be difficult for you to access on your own. 

They will carefully floss between each tooth, removing any residual plaque or toothpaste from the previous steps. This thorough flossing ensures that your teeth and gums are completely clean and free from debris.

Rinsing and Fluoride Treatment

Following the flossing, you will rinse your mouth to remove any remaining debris. Your dental hygienist may provide you with a rinse that contains liquid fluoride. Fluoride is a mineral that helps strengthen your tooth enamel and protect against cavities. 

The fluoride rinse is swished around your mouth for a short period, allowing the fluoride to reach all surfaces of your teeth. After rinsing, you can eat and drink immediately as fluoride varnish hardens upon contact with saliva.

Additional Examinations and Treatments

During your teeth cleaning appointment, your dentist or dental hygienist may perform additional examinations and treatments based on your specific needs. This may include taking X-rays to identify any hidden dental problems or recommending molar sealants for children to prevent cavities in hard-to-reach areas. These additional steps ensure a thorough assessment of your oral health and provide targeted treatments to address any concerns.

The Duration of a Teeth Cleaning Appointment

A regular teeth cleaning appointment typically takes around 30-45 minutes to complete. We leave 60min for an adult hygiene appointment and 30-40min for a child/teenager. This leaves ample time to also check your teeth and go through oral hgyiene instructions or discuss any treatment you may require. 

If you haven’t maintained good oral hygiene practices or if there are specific dental issues to address, the appointment may take longer. It’s important to remember that investing time in regular teeth cleanings is crucial for maintaining optimal oral health and preventing future problems.

The Safety of Teeth Cleaning

Teeth cleaning is a safe procedure when performed by a qualified dental professional. Your dentist or dental hygienist is trained to ensure that your teeth are cleaned thoroughly without causing any damage. 

However, it’s essential to communicate any pre-existing dental conditions or concerns you may have. This will enable your dental professional to tailor the cleaning process to your specific needs, ensuring your comfort and satisfaction.

The Cost of Teeth Cleaning

The cost of teeth cleaning may vary depending on factors such as location, dental clinic, and any additional treatments required. Generally, teeth cleaning falls under routine dental care and is often covered by dental insurance plans. 

If you’re not covered by insurance, the average cost of a regular teeth cleaning can range from $80 to $220 depending on your age. It’s important to check with your dental provider or insurance company for specific pricing information. If you have gum disease or you haven’t seen the dentist for a long time, additional sessions may be required.

Good Oral Hygiene Starts at Home

Don’t forget to practise good oral hygiene at home, including regular brushing and flossing, to complement the benefits of professional cleanings. With the guidance of your trusted dentist, you can enjoy a fresh, clean, and confident smile for years to come.

Are you overdue for a dental check-up and clean? Give us a call on 03 9593 1811 to schedule an appointment at our Brighton dental clinic. You’ll be in good hands with our friendly and professional dental hygienists!

Disclaimer: The material posted is for informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Results vary with each patient. Any dental procedure carries risks and benefits. If you have any specific questions about any dental and/or medical matter, you should consult your dentist, physician or other professional healthcare providers.

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